Navigation Officers & Rating Courses

Able Seaman

Did You Know?

The work can be physically demanding... enduring icy winds and cold rain on exposed decks during winter months... It can involve descending ladders and pulling ropes wearing protective gears. Working on a commercial vessel of any kind is hard work. But for the adventure at sea and an average salary of $50,421 per year, it all works out well for a young recruit.

Able Seaman

This course incorporates the standards of competence as outlined in Table A-II/4 of STCW 2010, as amended and the guidelines as per NVIC 14-14 for national endorsement as Able Seaman- Deck (AS-D).

Candidates who successfully complete this course will satisfy the written examination (AB01) and demonstration of ability (AB02) requirements of 46 CFR 12.405(b) for the Able Seaman qualification. In addition, candidates must possess the Basic Safety Training and the Lifeboatman certifications for the AS-D endorsement.


The Program comprises of three (3) individual courses with end of course assessments. Candidates must pass all three courses to be eligible toward the AS-D endorsement by the USCG.

Course Topics:

Examination Modules (AB01)

Q450:  Navigation and Rules of the Road

  • Nautical Terms and types of ships
  • Navigational Compasses
  • Operation and Function of Launching Devices
  • International and Inland regulations for vessels lights and sound signals

Q451:  Deck General

  • Pollution Laws and Regulations
  • Pollutions Prevention and Control
  • Procedures for discharge, containment and cleanup of sludge and waste from cargo and fueling operations
  • Marlinspike Seamanship
  • Deck Machinery and Ground Tackle
  • Anchoring Procedures
  • Emergency Towing
  • Man Overboard
  • Fire Prevention and Firefighting
  • Lifesaving Appliances
  • Care of Survivors
The Benefits of Online Courses

  • Flexible course enrollment
  • Interactive online program proctored by industry experts
  • Affordable and convenient with volume license discounts for corporate customers
  • USCG approved certificate of completion issued upon successful program completion and proctored exam at an Mariner Skills approved site.

Upon registration, courses are conveniently accessible online for candidates to participate at their own pace and on their own schedule.